Does the word “diabetes” send a shiver down your spine when you think about your furry best friend? You are not alone. Managing a diabetic dog takes careful attention, especially when it comes to their favorite snacks. Finding the perfect treat that keeps their blood sugar steady feels like a constant, tricky balancing act. You want to spoil them, but you also need to keep them healthy.
The pet store aisles offer a confusing jungle of labels. Many commercial treats hide hidden sugars or starches that can spike your dog’s glucose levels, causing worry and frustration for you. It is tough to know what truly supports their health without compromising on taste.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will show you exactly what ingredients to look for and which ones to avoid. Discover safe, delicious, and easy-to-find options that will have your dog wagging their tail happily. Keep reading to learn how to treat your diabetic dog right, every single time.
Top Diabetic Dog Treats Recommendations
- First Ever Diabetic-Friendly & All-Natural Formula for Healthy Snacking: Old Dog Cookie Company was the first to offer dog treats specifically made for diabetic dogs—thoughtfully crafted to support blood sugar regulation. These low calorie dog treats are vet-approved and made with natural ingredients, providing a satisfying crunch without artificial additives. A smart choice among treats for diabetic dogs who need dependable, healthy dog treats every day.
- Pumpkin-Powered Nutrient for Energizing Wellness: Infused with real pumpkin puree for dogs, these crunchy pumpkin dog treats are packed with fiber, antioxidants, and key vitamins. Pumpkin supports digestion, apples assist in blood sugar control, and dandelion helps promote immune function. These healthy dog treats are made with natural dog treats ingredients that energize and nourish aging pets.
- No Added Sugar – Pure, Healthy Ingredients You Can Trust: These wholesome dog biscuits from Old Dog Cookie Company are made with human-grade ingredients and proudly offered as Made in USA dog treats. With no added sugar, salt, preservatives, or artificial chemicals, they’re ideal for dogs managing diabetes or health sensitivities. Among the best healthy treats for dogs, they’re a trusted dog treats healthy option for conscious pet parents.
- Low-Calorie, High-Value Dog Treats: Each cookie contains just 16 calories, making them perfect low calorie dog treats that double as high-value training rewards. With a crunchy texture that supports chewing and a low-glycemic recipe that aids digestion, these are the ultimate dog snacks for rewarding your pet without compromising on health.
- Convenient 10 oz Pack – Freshness You Can Rely On: Sealed in a resealable 10 oz pouch, these dog treats healthy stay crisp and satisfying to the last bite. Each bag includes about 40 hard dog biscuits (2.5" each)—an ideal daily snack or thoughtful treats for older dogs. To maintain a healthy balance, treats should account for no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.
- ONLY 5 INGREDIENTS: Premium tender chicken and pumpkin, great tasting healthy dog treats. Approximately 100 sticks per 16 oz bag, great value.
- IDEAL FOR FINICKY PETS: many dogs instinctually do not like flour and grains which are common in low cost treats. Hank & Harley treats are GRAIN FREE, we never use low cost fillers like corn, wheat, soy or added sugar
- USA MADE and sourced! Nothing but safe meaty goodness
- 100% NATURAL & NO added vitamins that would interfere with a balanced daily diet. Over 90% chicken, low carbohydrates makes a good treat for diabetic pets.
- PLEASE NOTE: color variation is normal, as we do not use artificial colorants. This is due to the ratio of breast meat to dark meat where the dark meat helps keep our Jerky tender and tasty. Treat, train & reward your pet 3 to 5 times a day. Up to 10% of daily caloric allowance.
- SKIN & COAT SUPPORT: Specially formulated dog treats designed to promote healthy skin and a shiny, lustrous coat for your canine companion
- SOFT & MOIST TEXTURE: Tender, easy-to-chew treats perfect for dogs of all ages and sizes, making treat time enjoyable and hassle-free
- REAL CHICKEN FLAVOR: Made with delicious chicken that dogs love, providing a tasty reward while supporting their nutritional needs
- CONVENIENT PACK: Includes 2 bags of 10 ounces each for a total of 20 ounces, ensuring you have plenty of treats on hand for training and rewarding
- VETERAN'S K-9 CORPS FORMULA: Premium quality treats from American Vet~Dogs, crafted with care to support the well-being of your loyal four-legged friend
- Why Marcy’s Pet Kitchen? Wholesome, heart-shaped treats handmade in small batches using clean, simple ingredients for dogs with sensitive tummies.
- Gentle and Nourishing - Vegan, gluten-free and low glycemic. No added salt, dyes, or preservatives. Just real ingredients baked for easy digestion.
- Real Ingredients - A classic favorite made with protein-rich peanut butter and oat flour, gently baked for a soft, crunchy texture dogs love. Picky eater approved! 1 bag, 5oz
- As Seen In - Proudly featured by pet wellness blogs and trusted by dog parents looking for simple, honest nutrition. Look for us in Good Housekeeping and Pets Plus Magazine
- Female Founded - Created by Marcy Pellegrino, a dog mom on a mission to make safe, feel-good treats for pups with food sensitivities. Proceeds from every sale go to the Onyx Foundation.
- First Ever Diabetic-Friendly & All-Natural Formula for Healthy Snacking: Old Dog Cookie Company was the first to offer diabetic senior dog treats and dogs of all ages, made with natural ingredients to help regulate blood sugar and support overall wellness. Each bite-sized cookie is just 2 calories—perfect low calorie dog treats for weight management. These treats for dogs deliver the flavor dogs crave while offering truly healthy dog treats you can feel good about.
- Pumpkin-Powered Nutrients for Energizing Wellness: Infused with real pumpkin puree for dogs and thoughtfully selected botanicals, these pumpkin dog treats support digestion, immune health, and steady energy. With every bite, your pup enjoys the benefits of healthy dog treats made from real, natural dog treats ingredients—ideal for daily wellness in aging dogs.
- No Added Sugar – Pure, Healthy Ingredients You Can Trust: Crafted with human-grade ingredients and proudly offered as Made in USA dog treats, these wholesome dog biscuits contain no preservatives, added sugar, salt, or artificial chemicals. With dandelion, kelp, apple, and alfalfa, they rank among the best healthy treats for dogs. These are the dog treats healthy pups need for long-term vitality.
- Low-Calorie, High-Value Dog Training Treats: With just 2 calories per piece, these low calorie dog treats are ideal for positive reinforcement and everyday rewards. Their crunchy texture and petite shape make them perfect dog snacks for all breeds and sizes, whether you're teaching new tricks or simply showing your pup some love.
- Convenient 8 oz Pack – Over 225 Treats per Bag: Each resealable 8 oz pouch contains more than 225 bite-sized dog biscuits for ongoing freshness and flavor. Thoughtfully designed as dog treats healthy dogs can enjoy daily, they’re especially great treats for older dogs who need consistent, moderate portions. As always, treats should account for no more than 10% of your dog's daily calorie intake.
- Why Marcy’s Pet Kitchen? Wholesome, heart-shaped treats handmade in small batches using clean, simple ingredients for dogs with sensitive tummies.
- Gentle and Nourishing - Vegan, gluten-free and low glycemic. No added salt, dyes, or preservatives. Just real ingredients baked for easy digestion.
- Real Ingredients – Packed with carrots, sweet potato and peas for a vitamin-rich boost in every bite. Gently baked and perfect for plant-based pups! 1 bag, 5oz
- As Seen In - Proudly featured by pet wellness blogs and trusted by dog parents looking for simple, honest nutrition. Look for us in Good Housekeeping and Pets Plus Magazine.
- Female Founded - Created by Marcy Pellegrino, a dog mom on a mission to make safe, feel-good treats for pups with food sensitivities. Proceeds from every sale go to the Onyx Foundation.
- FREEZE-DRIED RAW CHICKEN BREAST DOG TREAT: Vital Essentials Freeze Dried Dog Treats pack more protein than industry standard into every bite to deliver the peak vitality your dog deserves. Our natural freeze-dried raw dog treats are made from responsibly sourced, premium butcher cut chicken breast.
- BETTER PROTEIN = BETTER BENEFITS: The best freeze dried dog treats on the market use premium butcher cut raw protein to unlock the benefits of naturally occurring vitamins and minerals in raw muscle and organs, because pets deserve the energetic playtimes, healthy skin, shiny coats, strong teeth, and essential gut health that a high-protein diet delivers.
- PROUDLY AMERICAN CRAFTED: All our dog treats and food are responsibly sourced and humanely harvested to ensure the quality of our proteins. We go above industry standards to preserve flavor and ensure the highest quality of protein and nutrients in every Vital Essentials product.
- MADE WITHOUT: Dog treat additives, fillers, dyes, flavorings, artificial preservatives, grains, or rendered by-products. Vital Essentials also offers the widest variety of single-protein raw dog food and treats on the market—great for picky eaters and dogs with allergies!
- RAW DOG TREATS FREEZE DRIED FOR PEAK FRESHNESS: Our protein is frozen within 45-minutes of harvesting to lock in peak nutrients, flavor, and freshness. A slow-freeze-dry ensures minimal processing, while preserving the vital nutrients that our pets deserve, the way nature intended.
- Why Marcy’s Pet Kitchen? Wholesome, heart-shaped treats handmade in small batches using clean, simple ingredients for dogs with sensitive tummies. Our low glycemic pumpkin dog treats are wholesome, crunchy, and light, offering a satisfying baked cookie that’s perfect for your picky eater. Infused with limited ingredients and nutrients you can see, these treats provide a healthy, natural option for your dog’s snack time.
- Gentle and Nourishing - Vegan, gluten-free and low glycemic. No added salt, dyes, or preservatives. Just real ingredients baked for easy digestion.
- Real Ingredients – Made with real pumpkin and oat flour for a fiber-rich bite that supports digestion. Soft-baked for a crunch that dogs crave. Sensitive tummy approved! Indludes 1 bag, 5oz
- As Seen In - Proudly featured by pet wellness blogs and trusted by dog parents looking for simple, honest nutrition. Look for us in Good Housekeeping and Pets Plus Magazine.
- Female Founded - Created by Marcy Pellegrino, a dog mom on a mission to make safe, feel-good treats for pups with food sensitivities. Proceeds from every sale go to the Onyx Foundation.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Sweet Treats for Your Diabetic Dog
Does your beloved canine friend have diabetes? Managing their diet is super important. Treats can still be a happy part of their life, but you must choose wisely. This guide helps you find the best, safest treats for your dog.
Key Features to Look For in Diabetic Dog Treats
When shopping, look for specific qualities in the treat bag. These features make a treat suitable for a diabetic dog.
- Low Glycemic Index (GI): This is the most important feature. Low GI foods release sugar slowly into the bloodstream. This helps keep your dog’s blood sugar stable.
- High Fiber Content: Fiber helps slow down sugar absorption. Good fiber sources include certain vegetables and whole grains.
- Protein Rich: Treats with good quality protein help your dog feel full and support muscle health without spiking sugar levels.
- Calorie Controlled: Diabetic dogs often need to maintain a specific weight. Look for smaller portions or low-calorie options.
Important Ingredients and Materials
What goes into the treat matters a lot. Avoid ingredients that act like sugar bombs.
Ingredients to Embrace (Good Stuff):
- Lean Meats: Chicken, turkey, or fish are excellent protein bases.
- Non-Starchy Vegetables: Carrots (in moderation), green beans, and pumpkin are usually safe choices.
- Healthy Fats: Small amounts of omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial for skin and coat.
Ingredients to Avoid (Bad Stuff):
- Added Sugars: Check labels for sucrose, dextrose, corn syrup, or honey. These spike blood sugar fast.
- Simple Carbohydrates: White flour and white rice should not be the main ingredient. They break down quickly into sugar.
- Artificial Sweeteners: Some artificial sweeteners, like xylitol, are extremely toxic to dogs. Never buy treats containing xylitol.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Treat Quality
Quality isn’t just about safety; it’s also about nutrition and processing.
Quality Boosters:
Treats made with whole, recognizable ingredients score higher. Treats baked or dehydrated (instead of heavily processed) often retain more natural nutrients. Look for treats where meat or vegetables are listed first on the ingredient list.
Quality Reducers:
A long list of unpronounceable chemical names reduces the quality. If the treat relies heavily on fillers (like corn gluten meal or soy isolates), the nutritional value drops. Treats with high levels of salt or artificial coloring are also lower quality for diabetic care.
User Experience and Use Cases
How do these treats fit into your daily routine?
Training and Positive Reinforcement:
Diabetic dogs still need training and praise. Small, low-carb, high-value treats work best for quick rewards during obedience sessions. You want something they love but that won’t derail their insulin management.
Managing Hunger Between Meals:
Sometimes, diabetic dogs feel very hungry. A few pieces of a high-fiber, low-calorie diabetic treat can bridge the gap between scheduled meals without causing dangerous blood sugar swings. Always discuss portion sizes with your veterinarian first.
Remember, treats should only make up about 10% of your dog’s total daily calories. Always introduce new treats slowly and monitor your dog’s glucose levels as directed by your vet.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Diabetic Dog Treats
Q: Can my diabetic dog eat regular dog biscuits?
A: Generally, no. Regular biscuits often contain too much sugar and simple carbs, which raise blood sugar too quickly.
Q: How do I know if a treat is truly low GI?
A: Look for clear labeling stating “Low Glycemic Index.” If the label doesn’t mention it, check the ingredients for high amounts of simple starches or sugars.
Q: Are homemade treats safer than store-bought?
A: Homemade treats can be safer because you control every ingredient, but you must use recipes specifically designed for diabetic dogs.
Q: Should I worry about the fat content in diabetic treats?
A: Yes. High fat intake can sometimes lead to pancreatitis, which is dangerous for diabetic dogs. Choose lean protein sources.
Q: Can I use fresh fruits as treats?
A: Only in very small, measured amounts, and only if your vet approves. Most fruits contain natural sugars that need careful monitoring.
Q: What is the biggest danger in choosing the wrong treat?
A: The biggest danger is rapid, uncontrolled hyperglycemia (very high blood sugar), which can lead to serious health crises.
Q: Do I need to adjust my dog’s insulin dose after giving a treat?
A: Never adjust insulin without consulting your veterinarian. They will guide you on how treats might affect your dog’s required dosage.
Q: What size should the treats be?
A: Treats should be small, especially for training. Smaller treats mean fewer calories and carbohydrates per reward.
Q: If a label says “Sugar-Free,” is it always safe?
A: Not always. “Sugar-Free” can sometimes mean they replaced sugar with other unhealthy fillers or artificial sweeteners. Always check the full ingredient list.
Q: How often can I give my dog a diabetic treat?
A: Discuss this with your vet. Often, one or two small treats per day, given at consistent times, works best for managing routines.